Iceberg Theory in Literature

Etymology of Iceberg Theory

The “Iceberg Theory,” also known as the theory of omission or the theory of the submerged iceberg, is a literary concept coined by American author Ernest Hemingway.

Hemingway developed this theory in his writing, particularly in his novel “Death in the Afternoon” and his short stories.

The essence of the theory lies in the idea that much like an iceberg, only a fraction of the story is visible on the surface, while the deeper and more profound meaning remains submerged, hinted at rather than explicitly stated.

Hemingway believed that readers should infer and interpret the underlying emotions, themes, and symbolism through subtext, dialogue, and the unsaid, fostering a more engaging and participatory reading experience. This approach has had a significant influence on modernist literature and has become a fundamental aspect of literary analysis and interpretation.

Meanings of Iceberg Theory

Aspect	Meanings	Example
Subtextual Depth	The “Iceberg Theory” suggests that in literature, only a fraction of the story’s meaning and emotions are explicitly stated, similar to the visible tip of an iceberg. The majority of the depth and significance is left beneath the surface, to be inferred and explored by readers.	In Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, the surface narrative follows the old man’s struggle to catch a fish. However, beneath the surface, the story explores themes of endurance, human resilience, and the connection between man and nature, which readers must uncover through subtextual analysis.
Omission and Minimalism	It emphasizes the deliberate omission of explicit details and explanations, promoting a minimalist style of writing where what is left unsaid is as important as what is articulated.	In Hemingway’s Hills Like White Elephants, the characters discuss a significant decision without explicitly mentioning it. The omission of details about the decision forces readers to engage actively, making inferences about the characters’ situation and emotions.
Reader Involvement	This theory encourages readers to actively engage with the text, prompting them to draw their own conclusions, make inferences, and uncover deeper layers of meaning. It fosters a participatory reading experience.	In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, the character Jay Gatsby remains enigmatic, with readers piecing together his life story through indirect clues. This requires readers to actively participate in deciphering the character’s background and motivations, enhancing their engagement with the novel.
Symbolism and Subtext	Hemingway’s work often relies on symbolism and subtext, allowing readers to uncover themes, character motivations, and emotional depth through careful reading and interpretation.	In A Farewell to Arms, Hemingway uses rain as a recurring symbol. While it’s often associated with the weather, it also symbolizes the emotional turmoil and tragedy in the protagonist’s life. Readers must delve into the subtext and symbolism to grasp the deeper layers of meaning within the narrative.
Modernist Influence	The “Iceberg Theory” is a hallmark of modernist literature, reflecting a shift away from overt exposition and embracing a more nuanced and subtle approach to storytelling.	James Joyce’s Ulysses is a prime example of modernist literature. It employs stream-of-consciousness narration and leaves much unsaid, requiring readers to piece together the fragmented narrative, reflecting the influence of the “Iceberg Theory” and the modernist movement in literature.
Impact on Literary Analysis	It has become a fundamental concept in literary analysis, guiding scholars and readers in uncovering hidden layers of meaning and exploring the rich subtext of literary works.	In the analysis of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, critics often use the “Iceberg Theory” as a framework to explore the novel’s complex symbolism and layered narrative. This approach helps scholars reveal the deeper themes and commentary embedded in the text.

Iceberg Theory: Theorists, Works and Arguments

Theorists:

• Ernest Hemingway: Hemingway is the primary proponent of the Iceberg Theory in literature. He employed this approach extensively in his writing, emphasizing what is left unsaid or beneath the surface of the narrative.

Theoretical Work or Essay:

• “The Theory of Omission”: Although not a specific essay or theoretical work, the Iceberg Theory is often associated with Hemingway’s approach to writing, particularly discussed in his letters, interviews, and essays such as “Death in the Afternoon,” where he expounds on the concept of omission and the iceberg principle.

Works:

• “The Old Man and the Sea”: In this novella, Hemingway’s use of the Iceberg Theory is evident as he explores deeper themes of human endurance, resilience, and the connection between man and nature beneath the surface narrative of a fisherman’s struggle.
• “Hills Like White Elephants”: Hemingway’s short story exemplifies the theory through a conversation between characters where the central issue remains unspoken, requiring readers to engage actively in deciphering the characters’ situation and emotions.

Arguments:

• Subtextual Depth: The Iceberg Theory posits that in literature, only a fraction of the story’s meaning and emotions are explicitly stated. The majority of the depth and significance are left beneath the surface, to be inferred and explored by readers.
• Omission and Minimalism: It emphasizes the deliberate omission of explicit details and explanations, promoting a minimalist style of writing where what is left unsaid is as important as what is articulated.
• Reader Involvement: This theory encourages readers to actively engage with the text, prompting them to draw their own conclusions, make inferences, and uncover deeper layers of meaning. It fosters a participatory reading experience.
• Symbolism and Subtext: Hemingway’s work often relies on symbolism and subtext, allowing readers to uncover themes, character motivations, and emotional depth through careful reading and interpretation.
• Modernist Influence: The Iceberg Theory is a hallmark of modernist literature, reflecting a shift away from overt exposition and embracing a more nuanced and subtle approach to storytelling.

These elements highlight the key aspects, theorists, theoretical works or essays, and arguments associated with the Iceberg Theory in literature.

Examples of Critique of Iceberg Theory

Work	Critique
A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway	Some literary scholars have argued that Hemingway’s application of the Iceberg Theory, with its deliberate omissions and minimalistic approach, can at times result in a narrative that feels emotionally distant. This approach may leave readers longing for a deeper connection with the characters and their inner lives.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald	While not typically associated with the Iceberg Theory, some critics contend that F. Scott Fitzgerald’s complex characters and themes might benefit from a more explicit exploration. They argue that a more direct narrative approach could provide readers with a clearer understanding of the intricacies of the characters‘ motivations and relationships.
Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemingway	Although often cited as a prime example of the Iceberg Theory, this short story’s reliance on subtext and omission has been criticized by some. They argue that its brevity and minimalism can sometimes leave readers wanting a more detailed and explicit narrative, resulting in a sense of dissatisfaction.
To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf	While Virginia Woolf’s works are considered predecessors to the Iceberg Theory, critics have suggested that her stream-of-consciousness style, while innovative, can lead to a narrative that feels fragmented and challenging to follow. Some argue that this approach may deter readers from fully engaging with the text and comprehending its underlying themes.

Suggested Readings

1. Hemingway, Ernest. Death in the Afternoon. Scribner, 1932.
2. Hemingway, Ernest. The Old Man and the Sea. Scribner, 1952.
3. Hemingway, Ernest. A Farewell to Arms. Scribner, 1929.
4. Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 1925.
5. Woolf, Virginia. To the Lighthouse. Harcourt, Brace, and Company, 1927.
6. Mandel, Miriam B. Hemingway’s Death in the Afternoon: The Complete Annotations. The Scarecrow Press, 2002.
7. Donaldson, Scott. By Force of Will: The Life and Art of Ernest Hemingway. Bison Books, 1977.
8. Trodd, Zoe. Edinburgh Critical Guides to Literature: Modernist Writing and Reactionary Politics. Edinburgh University Press, 2007.